Farida Akhter, the Fisheries and Livestock Advisor for the Interim Government, has declared that priority will be given to Bangladeshis, including the Hindu community, to ensure they can enjoy hilsa fish during this year's Durga Puja.

Akhter stressed that domestic demand for this prized fish will take precedence over exports to India.

In an interview with Indian news outlet News-18 on Friday, September 13, Akhter stated, "We regret to inform you that we will not be able to send any hilsa to India. The fish is costly, and we have noticed that our own people struggle to afford it.”

“Much of it is exported to India, and what remains is sold at high prices. We also celebrate Durga Puja, and our people deserve to enjoy it,” she added.

This represents a departure from previous years when former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina would send 4,000 tons of hilsa to India as a gesture of goodwill for Durga Puja.

Akhter criticized this practice, saying, "There was no need to export fish to India. It was wrong to prioritize exports under the pretext of maintaining good relations with India while neglecting the needs of our own people."

Akhter also emphasized that Bangladesh should not use hilsa as a diplomatic tool with India.

"If India genuinely values its relationship with Bangladesh, it should address more pressing issues, such as the Teesta River water distribution," she said.

The decision reflects a growing sentiment in Bangladesh that domestic needs should take precedence over international diplomatic gestures, especially regarding cultural and culinary essentials like hilsa during significant festivals such as Durga Puja.

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